If you're a woman of a certain age regular screening is one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early enough to treat it - and beat it.

The ACT is failing to reach its target of providing free mammograms every two years to 60 per cent of women aged between 50 and 69 - and that's a big worry, given that ACT women have the highest rate of breast cancer in the country.

Dr Anne Bicknell, Clinical Coordinator of BreastScreen ACT, says there are many reasons why women may not be making that all-important appointment. They might be flat out holding down a job as well as looking after children, grandchildren or elderly parents, they may believe they're not at risk of cancer, or they may just be afraid.

I was prompted to have my first mammogram after two close friends lost precious family members to breast cancer.

I took my tape recorder into the x-ray room so other women could get a better idea of what's involved and I talked to Dr Bicknell about what happens if you get called back. You can listen by clicking on the audio links attached to this story.

I'm one of the lucky ones - the procedure only took 20 minutes, wasn't particularly uncomfortable and I got the all clear on my scans. Even if it had been painful, I'd do it again - and if future results aren't so good I now know that I'll be in good hands.

Do yourself - and your family - a favour. Breast screening is free for women aged over 40. Call 13 20 50 to make an appointment and cross it off your to-do list.